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Ice axe
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{{short description|Winter mountaineering tool}} {{For|similar but smaller tools used typically in pairs for [[ice climbing]]|Ice tool}} {{Use dmy dates|date=December 2016}} [[Image:Ice axe.png|thumb|Ice axe <br/>1 – pick<br/>2 – head <br/>3 – adze <br/>4 – leash<br/>5 – leash stop<br/>6 – shaft with rubber grip<br/>7 – spike]] An '''ice axe''' is a multi-purpose [[hiking]] and [[climbing]] tool used by [[mountaineering|mountaineers]] in both the ascent and descent of routes that involve snow or ice covered (e.g. [[ice climbing]] or [[mixed climbing]]) conditions. Its use depends on the terrain: in its simplest role it is used like a walking stick, with the mountaineer holding the head in the center of their uphill hand. On steep terrain it is swung by its handle and embedded in snow or ice for security and an aid to traction. It can also be buried pick down, the rope tied around the shaft to form a secure anchor on which to bring up a second climber, or buried vertically to form a stomp [[belay]]. The adze is used to cut footholds, as well as scoop out compacted snow to bury the axe as a belay anchor.<ref name="freedom">{{cite book | edition = 7 | editor = Cox, Steven M. |editor2=Kris Fulsaas| title = [[Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills]] | publisher = The Mountaineers | isbn = 0-89886-828-9| location = Seattle | year = 2003}}</ref>
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